Barite (Baryte)

Barite, sometimes spelled “baryte,” is a mineral made up of barium sulfate (BaSO₄). It’s known for being unusually heavy for its size and has a striking crystalline form. You’ll often find it in colors like white, clear, or light shades of blue, yellow, and brown. The crystals can form in flat, blade-like shapes or in beautiful, flower-like clusters.

Barite is common in sedimentary rocks and around hot springs, as well as in ore deposits alongside lead, zinc, and silver. What makes it really useful, though, is its weight. In the oil and gas industry, it’s ground up into a fine powder and added to drilling fluids to help prevent blowouts. Barite is also used in paints, plastics, and even in medical equipment to block harmful radiation.

Beyond its industrial uses, barite is a favorite among mineral collectors for its diverse crystal shapes and delicate colors, making it both practical and beautiful.